Our Charles Koch Communications Fellow, Caitlin Grimes, penned an op-ed for the Libertarian Republic expressing how libertarians can be the middle ground when it comes to the death penalty.

Caitlin wrote,

In a society where many issues are viewed through the lens of the political right and left, the voice of the middle is often lost. Identifying as a libertarian can often be difficult when both sides seem unwilling to let you have a seat at the table. However, it can also be a blessing, as you can find the common ground between two very polarized sides. I find this to be especially true when it comes to the issue of the death penalty.

So where is the common ground that both sides can stand on to start what this libertarian sees as a much needed conversation on the death penalty?

She stated the reasons both the left and the right often cite for opposing the death penalty, including risk to innocent life, high cost, and racial disparities.

Caitlin closed by stating,

The death penalty is an issue that should bring us together, not drive us apart. There is an argument on both sides for its complete repeal, even though we may disagree on many other issues. Those of us in the middle would welcome a discussion on capital punishment.